As global demand for sweets increases, so does the rush for land to grow sugarcane. Companies that produce and supply sugar to Coca-Cola, PepsiCo and other food and beverage giants are kicking poor farmers off their land and violating their rights.

The system is poised for change. Now is the time for all of us to show companies that it is in their interests to lead. No brand is too big not to listen to its customers, and if enough of us urge the "Big 10" to do what is right, they will have no choice but to listen.